Since the 15th and 16th centuries, various styles of leggings were worn by both men and women. Most popular in Europe, the Renaissance era placed leggings in the fashion spotlight. Leggings are a tight, form-fitting type of trouser, that extends from the waist and typically comes down to the ankles. Often referred to as tights, they are not to be confused with pantyhose. Originally leggings were two separate garments, one for each leg.
By the early 17th century, or the Shakespearean era, leggings became a fashion staple mostly for men, but as time progressed leggings transcended back into the wardrobe of women. In the 1960’s, leggings were worn as an alternative to the highly popularized, capri pant. Worn by iconic Hollywood actresses, this alternative to pants had greater sex appeal for its skin tight look.
However, it was not until the fitness and aerobics boom of the early 1980’s that leggings became a popular piece of everyday apparel. Not only did their tight and attractive appearance make them a hot commodity, but their comfort made them a casual piece of every day wear. Again, the trend was highly trademarked by style icons of the time like Cindy Lauper and Olivia Newton John. By the mid-1990s, leggings outsold jeans in many parts of the United States. Leggings also made a comeback in Men’s closets. In many places, especially in colder countries such as Russia, men continued to wear leggings even into modern times, often as an additional underlayer for warmth against the cold.
In 2005, leggings made their biggest comeback since its last big return in the 80’s. Designers made leggings available in every color and style imaginable. Modern styles include footless, capri, ruched, studded and lace designs. Whether it’s a pair from Kensie Girl , reasonably priced at $30 or if you’re looking to splurge on a designer pair of Juicy Couture for $128, one thing’s absolute, this trend is affordable for just about anyone.